On Wednesday evening, Hurricane Milton struck Florida’s Gulf Coast as a powerful Category 3 storm, bringing with it fierce winds, hazardous storm surges, and the risk of widespread flooding.
More than 2 million homes experienced power outages as Hurricane Milton tore through central Florida. Tragically, fatalities have been reported at the Spanish Lakes Country Club near Fort Pierce, along with dramatic images showing the roof torn off the iconic Tropicana Stadium.
Milton reached Category 5 intensity twice while intensifying over the warm Gulf waters. When it made landfall at Siesta Key around 8:30 p.m., it had sustained winds of 120 mph, as reported by the National Hurricane Center.
Notably affected were densely populated cities like Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and Fort Myers, where dangerous storm surges were recorded.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
Taylor Swift Steps Up with $5 Million for Hurricane Relief
In a heartwarming response to the calamity, pop icon Taylor Swift has pledged $5 million to assist relief efforts for communities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, expressed gratitude on Instagram, noting that this generosity will help provide essential food, clean water, and supplies to affected individuals.
Cranes Collapse Amid Hurricane Milton’s Fury in St. Petersburg
The National Weather Service has reported multiple crane collapses in St. Petersburg due to Hurricane Milton’s high winds. One of these incidents occurred just six blocks from the city’s pier, but fortunately, there have been no reported injuries. The affected crane was part of a construction site for a luxury high-rise expected to be one of the tallest on Florida’s west coast by summer 2025.
Hurricane Milton Triggers Tornadoes Across Florida
Hurricane Milton has spawned at least 19 tornadoes throughout Florida. Reports indicate that two elderly residents lost their lives in Fort Pierce due to the storm’s ferocity. Emergency teams are actively searching for survivors in a retirement community severely impacted by the storm. St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson confirmed that multiple fatalities have occurred, with rescue efforts facing challenges from extreme weather conditions and rising storm surges.